DEAR ABBY: Today I ironed and folded my late husband’s lucky fishing shirt and placed it into a box going to Goodwill. Continuing with the task, I matched up 14 pairs of my good merino wool socks, most of which had been gifts from him in times that were not so flush. After three months, I have finally moved the box containing his ashes from the kitchen table.
Yesterday, I saw a couple sitting together in a fast-food restaurant. They were both focused only on their phone screens. I wanted so badly to shake them, to tell them to look at each other and talk to each other. They are so fortunate to have each other’s company.
Is it human nature to miss the water only when the well goes dry? Snuggle, hold hands, converse and say “I love you” every day. Don’t wait for Valentine’s Day. I was so lucky; you can be too. Abby, please remind your readers to appreciate their special someone EVERY day and show it. -- LOVED EVERY DAY
DEAR LOVED: Please accept my sympathy for the loss of your beloved husband. More people than young lovers have been known to become captives of their cellphones. I have observed the same phenomenon among older couples, but it also applies to parents with small children. Your message that we should love and show appreciation for each other every day is important, because no one is guaranteed a tomorrow.
***
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
